Atlantans have long felt the mystique of the historic Clermont Lounge, a site for decadent nightlife and risqué entertainment over many decades and under many names. The fascination of this site caught the attention of the acclaimed French fine art photographer Cyril Bailleul, who embedded himself as a resident artist at the Hotel Clermont for years to capture images from the Lounge.
For the first time, his works are on display at the Clermont Lounge itself in the exhibition “789 Ponce de Leon Avenue,” which was done in collaboration with the Villa Albertine. Bailleul recently joined Lois Reitzes on “City Lights” to discuss his new exhibition.
Over his years as a resident artist at the famed hotel and strip club, Bailleul has built lasting relationships with dancers and patrons alike, explaining to Lois that he now feels integrated into the little family that constitutes the women, staff and owners of the spot.
“I feel like I’m part of this family,” says Bailleul, “they are so close and help each other…. I [want] to pay tribute to them.”
This is not the first time that the photographer’s work with the Claremont has been displayed — exhibitions of these particular works have appeared in two separate shows over the last decade or so. “Girls, Girls, Girls” made an appearance at Jacques Devos Gallery in Paris’ Saint Germain neighborhood, and “Above, Where the Ladies Dance” was displayed at the Atlanta Celebrates Photography festival in 2018.
